Final answer:
Viruses like the one responsible for cowpox cause disease by entering the host's cells, hijacking their machinery, and triggering an immune response. Edward Jenner developed the first vaccine from cowpox, which stimulated the immune system to provide protection against smallpox.
Step-by-step explanation:
Disease caused by viruses
Viruses, like the one responsible for cowpox, cause disease by entering the host organism and hijacking its cellular machinery. They attach to specific host cells and inject their genetic material, which then takes control of the cell's machinery to reproduce more viruses. This process can damage the host cells and trigger an immune response, leading to the symptoms of the disease.
Specific example: Cowpox
In the case of cowpox, the virus enters the body through a break in the skin, often through contact with infected cows. Once inside the body, it infects skin cells and begins replicating. This leads to the appearance of pustules and blisters on the skin, causing discomfort and potential secondary infections.
Transmission and prevention
Viruses can be transmitted through various routes, including direct contact, respiratory droplets, and contaminated surfaces. To prevent viral diseases, vaccines are developed to stimulate the immune system and train it to recognize and fight the specific virus. Edward Jenner's development of the cowpox vaccine was a landmark achievement in the field of immunization, as it provided protection against smallpox.
Learn more about How viruses cause disease